Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1544465
11 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 17 APRIL 2026 CULTURE retreat into Gozo's outdoors ly with the surroundings, grounded by open skies and uninterrupted horizons. The tranquil setting of Ta' Ċenċ and the San Dimitri area are two spots among many. The coast speaks a different language, tranquil and bathed in air slightly tinged with salt. The coastal paths in Gozo weave their way through cragged rocky outcrops, low-lying areas leading to coves and inlets and steeper ridges and dramatic cliff zones where land drops into sea. For an early morning muse, capture sunrise while trekking the east- ern side of the island. Places like Xatt l-Aħmar, Ħondoq ir-Rummien and the area around San Blas provide a show- stopping but gentle awakening vibe. Spots on the other side of Gozo, such as Xlendi, Wardija, and Dwejra, are pop- ular sunset-watching spots. Panoram- ic and magnificent views unfold from every vantage point. Beyond all this, Gozo offers a fascinating geological puzzle, with layers of sedimentary rock revealing themselves at different sites. A unique Gozitan coastal experience is the saltpan zones along the coast of Xwejni. Though the saltpans are clearly man-made, echoing ancient tradition- al salt harvesting, the area offers quiet, even meditative walks or drives along this natural route. Between the countryside and coast lie many of Gozo's valleys, akin to corri- dors running through the island as they carve their path to the sea. Gozo is also home to a variety of secluded valleys. Some, such as Marsalforn Valley, offer accessible and pleasant walking routes, while others seem to have been creat- ed to cater for the passion of adrena- line-pumping adventurers. Valleys like the Mġarr ix-Xini and Dwejra offer a more adventurous edge, with the pos- sibility of light climbing during explo- ration. Mġarr ix-Xini valley is a rug- ged gorge marked by gaping crevices in the cliff face that attracts the abseiling crowd. Similarly striking is the Xlendi Valley, which starts off with a charm- ing pastoral view and gradually spirals down into a more primitive landscape of smooth white cliff face enveloping what feels like a reed forest. Other dramatic valleys, like Wied il-Mielaħ and Wied il-Għasri, offer a different spectacle, ending abruptly at the sea and revealing breathtaking coastal views. On the oth- er hand, San Blas valley is a fruit-grow- ing basin. The views are pleasant, but be prepared for a walk characterised by a very steep descent. At Lunzjata, a val- ley close to Victoria, even families with a light pushchair can enjoy a beautiful walk. Lunzjata, originally a hunting ground for the Knights of Malta, has a uniquely medieval character, with a spring that irrigates the fertile fields, a fountain used by farmers to wash their produce before taking it to market, and a historic chapel built into the cliff wall. While not always in season, the sea is a vital part of the natural experience. Outside the summer season, the emp- ty beaches and coves offer the luxury of solitude and clarity. A leisurely walk along the red shoreline of Ramla, a quick jog, or simply sitting down to gaze at the horizon while being lulled by the rhythmic waves rushing to shore, shifts perspective and restores balance. Ramla is not the only beach; San Blas, Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Qbajjar, and certain parts of Marsalforn can also suit the mood. Some might seek a deeper connection through a cold dip, weather permitting. Kayaking opens another dimension, al- lowing coastal exploration from the sea itself, while underwater diving unveils yet another dimension. In Gozo, the diving season runs from April to Octo- ber, but some diving schools offer ex- clusive winter off-season diving stints. Gozo is about connecting with na- ture in a mosaic of moments – each of which, whether landlocked or sea- kissed, is about a simple gesture: taking a breath, stopping to pause, and gently reconnecting to your true self. Between the countryside and coast lie many of Gozo's valleys, akin to corridors running through the island as they carve their path to the sea Walking at Sanap Cliffs, Munxar, Gozo (Photo: Ted Attard) Lunzjata Valley Is-Salvatur and the surrounding countryside (Photo: Kevin White)